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Television shows and cartoons have taught us that trauma turns our hair white, just like Rogue from X-Men. But does this happen in real life? Watch this to find out!

Transcript: Our bodies can do some strange things-take, for example, hiccups or crying when cutting an onion. But...

Our bodies can do some strange things-take, for example, hiccups or crying when cutting an onion. But of all our weird quirks, hair turning SUDDENLY WHITE doesn't make the list.No matter how scary that horror flick is, it's impossible for you to turn into Rogue from X-Men. Why? Hair is made up of essentially non-living cells. Once it has grown out of the scalp, the pigment can't just "Go Away." But there ARE a number of conditions-BESIDES fright-that CAN cause your hair to turn white over time. Or in SOME cases, make it SEEM like your hair is going white in a matter of days. Age is the most common reason hair turns white. Your chances of going grey increase 10-20 percent EVERY DECADE after 30. Hair becomes grey when the hair follicles stop making colored pigment. During the growing process, the pigment MELANIN gives hair its color. Experts haven't figured out WHY, but at a certain age these hair follicles STOP producing melanin. So when your hair grows, there's nothing to color it. It's possible for your hair to turn prematurely white as a side effect of a medical condition. One condition, ALOPECIA AREATA, is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to ATTACK its own follicles, resulting in hair falling out, usually in patches. When your hair grows back it's often thin and white. If you ALREADY have salt and pepper strands, a sudden alopecia areata attack can make patches of your hair seemingly turn white ALMOST overnight. Because alopecia atrea ONLY assaults follicles with melanin, colored strands can fall out leaving only white or gray hair behind. VITILIGO can also cause hair color change. This condition causes SKIN to lose color, but can also affect the SCALP. The disease destroys pigment-making cells so any new hair in the affected area grows in patches or streaks of white. To learn more about these diseases and other common hair myths, check out the rest of the videos in this series.

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There are many styling products for all hair types, but selecting the right one is the challenge. Watch this video to learn more.

Transcript: To keep curly hair in control, one of the best things you can use is a styling cream. Creams are a blend...

To keep curly hair in control, one of the best things you can use is a styling cream. Creams are a blend of oil, wax, and polymers // which bind to the hair and cut down on frizz. For best results, rub the product through your hair while it is still wet. This helps lock in moisture and define your curls.For straight hair, try a pomade. Pomades are oil-based to add shine and texture. They are great for creating both well-groomed look or an intentionally-messy one. To apply, rub a small amount in your hands to warm before working it through your hair. Hair waxes are pretty much a stronger version of a pomade and work best on very short or very thick hair. For more great grooming tips, check out the rest of the videos in this series.

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Waxing your chest and back is really nothing to get too worked up over. Check out these tips on preparation and aftercare when waxing.

Transcript: Men, we you know you want to look good. And we WANT you to look good, too. Maybe that's why more men...

Men, we you know you want to look good. And we WANT you to look good, too. Maybe that's why more men than ever are going hairless on their back and chest // courtesy of some hot wax. It's really nothing to be ashamed of. Just look at The Situation on Jersey Shore. First, let's set the record straight. Waxing your chest won't have you screaming in pain like that scene in the 40-year-old Virgin. But, there WILL be mild to strong discomfort. A little pain equals a lot of gain, right? Honestly, it's over pretty quickly about 30 to 50 minutes and the results last four to six weeks .So here's everything you need to know, from prep to procedure to aftercare. First exfoliate. This will clean the pores of oils and dead skin cells that prevent the wax from adhering to your hair, reducing your pain. Also, DO NOT trim that chest or back hair beforehand. I don't care how self-conscious you are. If your hair is shorter than a quarter of an inch the wax can't grab it. The professional will use soft wax, also known as strip wax, since it'll remove more hairs in less time. Here's how it works // The hot wax is applied in the direction of hair growth across the skin the technician will then apply a paper or cloth strip press down into the skin and pull off in the opposite direction / leaving a very soft, smooth patch of skin. For a back wax most professionals start on the middle of the back and end with the neck and trap area. Essentially, they're going from the LEAST painful areas to the MOST painful. Let's break it down on the pain scale. Highest are your neck and traps followed by the upper back and spine. The outer lats will hurt less, as will the middle back. The lower back is the least painful. You'll notice that the more muscular areas will be easier on your skin, since it's not being tugged as much. Afterwards avoid intense workout sessions for at least 2-3 days. Sweat can irritate the skin and fill the pores causing infections, especially along the upper back and center of the chest.And, always check with your doctor first before undergoing any hair removal procedure and discuss any medical conditions you may have with the therapist before that first drop of wax hits your skin. To learn more about hair removal procedures and techniques, check out other videos in this series.

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Threading is one of the most common techniques for hair removal. To learn more about threading, take a look at this video.

Transcript: Threading may sound like a new hair removal technique to you, but Iranians have been threading since...

Threading may sound like a new hair removal technique to you, but Iranians have been threading since those early days when the Persian Empire ruled. They just call it Bande Abru. Abru meaning eyebrow, and Band, the Persian word for thread. This ancient art of hair removal is actually one of the quickest and least painful. And, all you need is a piece of cotton thread. But, how does it work? The threading professional will loop a thin piece of thread around her fingers and thumb, placing the thread at hair level, twisting it so that the thread grabs the hair like a mini lasso. Once the hair is caught, she'll give a quick tug and there you go - it's been plucked from the root. Need proof threading works? Just look at the defined eyebrows of Elizabeth Hurley and Reese Witherspoon, who are reportedly fans of the technique. But why go for threading as opposed to tweezing? Well, with threading you can remove a whole row of hair at once, giving you a nice, straight line. And, unlike waxing, you're ONLY removing hair. Sure, threading's great for shaping small patches of hair, like your eyebrows or removing stragglers from your upper lip, but if you're looking to remove a large amount of hair from, say, your cheeks or hands, it can be painful. Because remember, you're not only pulling hair from the root, you're also pulling a good amount out at once. And if you happen to have extremely sensitive skin, or use certain acne medications, threading's your best bet. Threading won't give you the redness or sore feeling of waxing or something more sever, like laser hair removal. Not to mention, it's one of the most, sanitary ways to remove pesky little hairs, since no chemicals are involved and the skin is never broken. Just be sure you go to a trained professional so you can avoid risks like pinching, or cutting the skin and ingrown hairs. And avoid threading over zits, because it can cause them to rupture. Results typically last up to 6 weeks and with only 1/16-inch of hair needed for the thread to wrap, you can go as often as you need. And here's a quick tip for before your first threading session: use a warm compress to relax the hair follicle for an easier and less painful removal. To learn about different hair removal procedures and techniques, check out other videos in this series.

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Not handy with a pair of tweezers? Don't fret. Just watch this video to learn the ins-and-outs of tweezing from prep to aftercare, because no one wants to over pluck, now do they?

Transcript: Here's something you may've never considered. Each time you pick up those tiny tweezers and pluck away...

Here's something you may've never considered. Each time you pick up those tiny tweezers and pluck away at your eyebrows, you're actually HURTING your chances of getting that defined shape you really want. The best thing you can do for your brows is let them grow out. Yes, we're talking Brooke Shields style. See, eyebrow hair, unlike other hair, can be in a resting or telogen phase at any given time. In other words, your eyebrow's re-growth rate is slower than any other hair on your body. This means it'll take time for those over plucked sections to grow back and a few more sessions than expected to create the look you want. Not handy with a pair of tweezers? Here's how it works. To tweeze, grip the hair close to the root and pull gently, yet firmly IN the direction of growth. You'll feel a slight stinging or pricking sensation as soon as the hair is pulled and red bumps may appear around the swollen follicle, but those will disappear in about half an hour. Afterwards, wipe the area down with an antibacterial soap. Tweezing is great for eyebrows, or those strays that pop up around your chin and I'm going there -- the bikini line. But how do you know if you're doing it right? Never fear, these tips will help. Stretch the skin taut, ESPECIALLY near the sensitive areas like the eye and bikini line. This will help you get a better grip on the hair AND reduce the pain. If you're tweezing at home, prep yourself by ensuring you have good even light and consider taking a shower beforehand, since it's easier to remove the hair when your pores are open. If you're going to a professional, be sure they're accredited and working with sanitized tools. Even the slightest bit of bacteria can cause an infection when it hits broken skin. For gals, if you're nearing your period, think twice before tweezing, since skin gets more sensitive the first three days before your period and the first three days of your period. Be careful not to yank the hair, because then it will break and you'll have an ingrown hair on your hands. That's when the hair typically curls back or grows sideways into the skin, often causing an infection. And in case you were considering tweezing your nose hairs or those growing from moles , don't do it. These areas are highly susceptible to infections. To learn more about hair removal procedures and techniques, check out other videos in this series.

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Waxing doesn't have to hurt. Not matter legs, eyebrows or bikini. All you have to do though is follow a few tips starting with prep all the way through aftercare. You'll be surprised just how helpful this waxing 101 is.

Transcript: The question I get asked most often when waxing a client is 'Does it hurt?' And you know what? Yes, it...

The question I get asked most often when waxing a client is 'Does it hurt?' And you know what? Yes, it does hurt. After all, you're spreading hot wax across your skin and ripping off patches of hair. But it won't hurt as much as you think and there are always ways to reduce the pain. But before we get to that, you should first understand the technique behind waxing. A bundle of muscles known as arrector pili surround the hair at the root, anchoring it into your skin, and they don't like being pulled, so it's going to sting a bit when the wax rips out the hair. The best way to lessen the pain is to exfoliate beforehand // clearing away the dead skin, so the wax easily grabs the hair. Just make sure you don't use an astringent or toner, because those will both tighten the pores. So let's get right to it. The waxing professional spreads a thin layer of wax over the skin, pressing a cloth or paper strip on top. Then, while your skin is being pulled tight, the strip will be ripped off in one quick motion AGAINST the direction of hair growth, removing hair at the root . Those with sensitive skin may find waxing too irritating, but it's a fast way to remove lots of hair from practically anywhere -- eyebrows, upper lip, chin, cheeks, bikini line and, yes, for you guys // the back and other those two other intimate places that rhyme with back // you name it. The smooth results last 6 to 8 weeks longer than shaving and your hair will also likely grow back thinner and softer. Waxing does have its drawbacks though -- like ingrown hairs. See, removing the hair against the direction of growth disturbs the follicles, sometimes causing hair to grow back in different directions or even curl into the skin as an ingrown hair. There's also the chance of tearing and minor bleeding. But that usually occurs when waxing areas with thick hair for the first few times, when the follicles are strongest. As for aftercare, you'll want to keep exfoliating to avoid ingrown hairs. And cut out other pore clogging activities like workout sessions -- ie sweating -- as well as tanning for at least 2-3 days. While waxing is great for lots of places, there are some places wax does not belong: extremely sensitive areas like your eyelashes and eyelids. And always discuss any medical conditions you may have with the waxing professional. To learn more about hair removal procedures and techniques, check out other videos in this series.

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Depilatory creams have long been used for hair removal. However, much has changed since they were first created! Watch this video to learn more about depilatory cream basics.

Transcript: If you're like me, you can't think of depilatory creams without humming 'We wear short shorts'. But...

If you're like me, you can't think of depilatory creams without humming 'We wear short shorts'. But forget that jingle, the truth is women have been slathering on these hair removal creams since the early 1800s. Depilatory creams, which are a mixture of mildly caustic chemicals that contain sodium and calcium thioglycolate, seep just below the skin's surface, dissolving the protein known as keratin in the hair shafts causing the hair to break and fall out, leaving your skin short, shorts-ready. Now, you may be asking yourself: Is this safe? After all, slathering chemicals on your skin sounds shady. The short answer is YES. All the acid-based chemicals are used in the most diluted form, so unless your skin is very sensitive, you should be fine. To be sure, test the cream on a patch of forearm hair and look out for an allergic reaction, irritation or skin discoloration.Even though depilatories most often come in cream form, they're also available in gels, lotions, aerosol, roll-ons, and powders . So that means directions are going to differ for each. But the first step is ALWAYS the same - clean your skin. To start, coat the area evenly and wait until the directed time is up -- usually 5 to 10 minutes. Just steer clear of applying the cream over cuts or inflamed skin, as well near the upper cheeks, eyebrows and eyes. The chemicals, even when diluted, can cause a burning sensation in these sensitive areas. When time's up, grab a wet, warm washcloth and smooth it along the area in a downward motion. The extra pressure will help break away more hairs. And there you have it, you're hair free. Because the alkali chemicals used can cause skin irritation, abrasive soaps and deodorants are OFF LIMITS for at least 12 hours. There are a number of advantages to using hair removal creams // from convenience to targeting difficult to shave areas - think bikini line. They'll also work on your arms, legs, chest, back, and face. The results last a LITTLE longer than shaving, but NOT as long as waxing, since the cream ISN'T killing the root. The good news is your hair WILL grow back softer and thinner than before. Just bear in mind the chemicals aren't strong enough for coarse, thick hair. Some unpleasant side effects include rashes and partially dissolved hair. And, for those with dark hair, you might wind up with a visible shadow under the skin since the hair HASN'T been completely removed. Not to mention the potent, unpleasant scent and the mess factor. It's always best to speak with your doctor before applying any type of chemical-based creams on your skin. To learn more about hair removal procedures and techniques, check out OTHER videos in this series.

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Do you want an effective way of getting rid of your unwanted hair? Electrolysis may be a good idea. Watch this video to learn about this procedure in detail.

Transcript: I know what you're thinking. 'Electrolysis? That's so 1983'. You have a point. Electrolysis did see its...

I know what you're thinking. 'Electrolysis? That's so 1983'. You have a point. Electrolysis did see its heyday back in the '80s when technology was on the upswing. And as a result, the hair removal technique became more convenient, more reliable and certainly much easier to use. Here's the deal: During the procedure a thin needle is inserted into a hair follicle, zapping the root with electricity permanently damaging the surrounding cells. Just get ready to say 'ouch!'. It's up for debate, but the FDA claims, electrolysis is -- the ONLY permanent option out there. Most people think laser hair removal has the same guarantee, but according to the FDA, lasers can only permanently 'reduce' hair re-growth, not permanently 'remove' it. Ready to embrace the electricity? Here's what to expect and some tips to help you prepare. The most important part is accepting that it WILL hurt. But, as long as you're with a professional and in the right mindset, you'll be able handle it. Need some help? Pop an over-the-counter ibuprofen pill at least 30 minutes beforehand to help dull the pain and reduce the inevitable swelling. Need something stronger? You can also request that the estitician performing the electrolysis apply a topical anesthetic. Also, make sure you're drinking AT LEAST 8 glasses of water a day. This is EXTREMELY important since the jolts of electricity will dry out your skin. And, the drier your skin is, the more it will hurt and eventually crack. Now, there are three different electrolysis methods used. The first one, Galvanic Electrolysis, produces lye when the shock is delivered to the follicle. And it's the LYE that kills the hair at its root. The second method, Thermolysis, uses high frequency radio waves that kill the hair follicles. And Blend Electrolysis simply blends the two methods together. Pregnant women should stick to Thermolysis to be safe. As for aftercare, remember, your skin has just been fried, so avoid alcohol-based soaps, lotions and make-up for AT LEAST 2-3 days. You'll want to apply an antibacterial ointment the night after your treatment to help reduce the healing time and help relieve the pain, at least a little. Looking for something more natural? Try witch hazel. Also, make sure you keep the sweating to a minimum - that means no exercise for at least 2-3 days. And don't be disappointed when some re-growth appears, It's expected. But at least the roots are weaker and will take better to the following sessions. Complete results can be seen in about 2 years. As always, check with your doctor before undergoing any hair removal procedure. And to learn more about hair removal tips and techniques, check out OTHER videos in this series.

IPL hair removal. Laser hair removal. They're the same thing, right? Wrong. On one hand, laser hair removal is all about precision - targeting hair follicles while NOT heating the surrounding skin, while IPL - which stands for intense pulsed light - is all about hitting the greatest surface area in the shortest amount of time. With IPL, high intensity flashes of light from a specially designed xenon flash lamp quickly wash over BOTH the hair AND skin being treated. The rapid discharge of the lamp's capacitors does the trick -- damaging, and eventually killing the hair, and, in most cases, only slightly injuring the skin. Essentially, IPL is the cheaper and faster option for minimizing hair growth, but you run the risk of affecting the surrounding skin. Another important thing to remember is that both procedures are based on targeting dark pigmented hair, meaning neither works well on light colored hair or peach fuzz. Now, before you take the plunge, it's best to understand the procedure step-by-step. To prep, avoid spending time in the sun for a week or so. And, if you're taking the acne treatments, stop at least two weeks in advance. If you don't, you could wind up with some pretty nasty burns and blisters on the treated area. The procedure starts with the aesthetician waving a hand-held wand or an articulated arm across your skin -- like so -- directing the broad spectrum of light on the desired area. This light will travel through the skin until it strikes the hair shaft or the root of the hair -- this is where the pigment is strongest. When the light hits the pigment it's converted to heat energy -- instantly vaporizing the root along with most of the hair shaft. As for aftercare, you'll need to use sun block with an SPF of 30 and avoid exercise, saunas and hot showers for at least 12 hours. You'll also need to shun soaps, deodorants, and harsh chemicals for at least 2-3 days. Since you're experiencing a tense jolt of energy, expect some discomfort. But if you're a man, expect a little more. Male body hair is generally thicker than women's and that means stronger pulses of light need to be used. And keep in mind that there are people who SHOULDN'T undergo this procedure --African Americans or dark-skinned patients, since there may be pigment changes resulting in white spots. Also, pregnant or breast feeding women and people using medications that cause photosensitivity are also at risk. Those with photosensitivity related conditions such as Epilepsy, where the flashing light could trigger a seizure or Lupus should also steer clear of IPL. It's always best to speak with your doctor though, before undergoing any type of laser or IPL procedure.To learn more about hair removal, check out OTHER videos in this series.

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Laser hair removal surgery is an option for those who are tired of continuously shaving and waxing unwanted hair. This video explains everything you need to know about body hair removal: laser.

Transcript: For some people, shaving, waxing and threading just doesn't cut it. When they want their hair removed,...

For some people, shaving, waxing and threading just doesn't cut it. When they want their hair removed, they want it gone for good, which is why 2 million Americans undergo laser hair removal surgery each year. Unlike other methods of hair removal, LASER hair removal must be performed by a dermatologist, not just an aesthetician. The procedure became available in the mid 1970s, but it wasn't until the late '90s that the FDA approved the procedure for PERMANENT hair reduction. Although it is not literally PERMANENT (only electrolysis is considered fully Permanent), 'permanent' hair reduction is defined by the FDA as the long-term, stable reduction in the number of hairs that re-grow after a treatment routine. Popular for speed, efficiency and availability, one thing laser hair removal CANT claim to be is painless. But, while it's MORE painful than the temporary techniques like waxing and tweezing, it's actually LESS painful than the other permanent option of electrolysis. So how exactly does it work? The laser beam targets the melanin pigment found in hair follicles, heating it up and causing damage. In other words, just the follicle will be damaged while the rest of the skin remains unharmed. With enough injury, the hair will eventually fall out and stop re-growing. Remember though, only black or brown hair can be removed since red, blonde and white hair doesn't contain the pigment. Also keep in mind that laser hair removal works best on coarse hair, as well as light skin with dark hair. If you want to see permanent results, one session won't cut it. It'll take about 6 to 8 treatments spaced 8 to 12 weeks apart, depending on the area of the body being treated. You'll also need to wait 2-3 weeks for the treated hair to shed. There ARE side effects that come with going under that intense laser beam, though. The minor ones include, itching, redness and swelling - similar to what you might experience after a waxing session. The more SERIOUS risks include skin burn, discoloration in the form of white spots, acne, scabbing and infections. Picking the appropriate laser and setting for your skin type can help minimize these risks -and, of course, finding a reputable doctor for the procedure. With any form of hair removal, be sure to discuss this one with your doctor because you could be allergic to the hair removal gel used with certain laser types or even the preferred numbing creams. To learn more about other hair removal procedures and techniques, check out additional videos in this series.

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Eyebrow resurrection, similar to tattooing, can help better your brow. Watch our video on eyebrow problems & resurrection and learn more about it.

Transcript: We've all over-plucked or over-tweezed at some point. And what you're left with is an unsightly bald...

We've all over-plucked or over-tweezed at some point. And what you're left with is an unsightly bald patch on your eyebrow. Luckily, that's something you can now easily fix - if you don't mind a little discomfort. Eyebrow resurrection, a cosmetic procedure that's similar to tattooing, can help give you your brows back. Before the appointment, try not to drink alcohol or take Aspirin. Both are blood thinners and may cause excessive bleeding when the resurrection begins. And be sure to mention if you're pregnant, diabetic or have chronic heart disease BEFORE the procedure. And, of course, any allergies you may have. Since a plant-based dye is used, there's the chance of a reaction. The technician will start the resurrection by applying a thin layer of antiseptic numbing cream over the area and then draw individual strands of hair -- in the direction of growth -- on the brow line. When the most flattering shape is sketched, a small amount of dye is injected under the skin along the outlined hairs. You may feel a pricking sensation, much like having your eyebrows plucked. A serum containing soothing Vitamin E is then be applied, to help your skin heal.You'll most likely experience some swelling, tenderness and bruising afterwards, but don't worry, that's normal. Also, keep in mind that the color will be much darker than expected for the first six to ten days, since the area is still healing. The results last anywhere from fifteen months to two years. As for the aftercare, there's a list of DON'TS to follow:DON'T let the treated area come in prolonged contact with water for three to seven days. I know it sounds like a long time, but do you really want to wash away everything you went through? That includes no swimming for the first two weeks, along with facials. Also, avoid saunas, steam baths and excessive exercise, since you want to keep sweat away from your brows. Don't PICK or PEEL the skin. Peeling and scabbing is a natural part of the healing process. Don't expose the skin to sun or tanning. Avoid using makeup and skincare products around the treated area until fully healed. It will clog pores and dull the results. And here's a DO -- DO schedule a touch up for one to three months later, when the dye has totally scabbed off. The technician will assess the results at this session and address any areas that need maintaining. Always check with your doctor first before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. To learn more about hair removal procedures and techniques, check out other videos in this series.

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Following hygienic facial hair care for men can keep your skin healthy and your beard dandruff free. To learn how to look your best, watch this video.

Transcript: What do Zach Galifianakis and Sean Connery have in common? Give up? They both have beards // and rather...

What do Zach Galifianakis and Sean Connery have in common? Give up? They both have beards // and rather well-kept ones at that.Now if you have a beard, you're probably asking yourself, 'How do I get mine to shine like theirs?' Well, wonder no more! I'm here to share a few tips for shaping up your facial hair from the eyebrows down to the coarse tufts of hair under the chin. But before we get to the shaping, let's first understand why men have facial hair. It seems the only purpose this hair serves is to show that the male has reached sexual maturity, which is why it starts sprouting between 14 and 20 years of age. Other than that, there really are no health benefits to having facial hair. But there are other benefits, like catching a partner's eye. So how do you keep your beard in tip top shape? First, make sure your skin stays healthy UNDER all that hair. A common problem among men with beards is dandruff. Yes, dandruff, which shouldn't be confused with dry skin, because it's really more than that.Dandruff // the shedding of dead skin // is actually a result of three factors: excessive oil secretions, fungus that festers on the skin under matted hair // which could explain that awful odor // and individual susceptibility. Now don't start freaking out thinking mushrooms are going to start peeking through your beard. Dandruff is rather easy to treat. Pick up a shampoo packed salicylic acid to eat away the excess oil and zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole, an antifungal agent, to kill the fungus. Also, wash your facial hair, including the sideburns, thoroughly. As soon as you've freshened up, take a wide-tooth comb and run it through the hair to remove any tangles and straggling white flakes. But the styling shouldn't stop there. Trimming is great, but you may also consider threading // removing hair with a thin thread // at the hairline just below your cheekbones. This will give your beard definition that'll compliment your face shape. And as long as you're grooming, why not define your eyebrows with some threading? Honestly, it won't hurt much. To learn more about grooming and hair techniques, check out other videos in this series.